http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/7007219/fan-throws-banana-philadelphia-flyers-winger-wayne-simmonds
On November 10, the topic of race and ethnicity in sport was discussed. When takling about race in sports, obviously the first thought to come into a person's head is Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier. That was truly one of the greatest events in not just baseball history but in the history of sports.
While we like to remember how great of a moment it was from a history stand point, we mustn't forget how at the time, Robinson went through much scrutiny as blacks and whites were still seperated from many things such as hotels and restaurants. However, through the years, racism had slowly diminished in sports. Unfortunately, just because racism had diminished, it doesn't mean racism is entirely gone.
During a preseason game against the Detroit Red Wings, Philadelphia Flyers winger Wayne Simmonds had a banana thrown at him as he was rushing to the goalie during his turn in a shootout. Throwing of a banana at an African American is considered by many to be a prejudicial act and this was no different. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman apologized publicly for the incident as he should have but the fact that this is still a problem in society today is a real eye opener.
Coakley discusses the notion of how we as individuals inherit race ideology from the people we interact with such as family members, friends, neighbors, and others. The question should then be asked, who exactly is this fan spending time with that would give him the idea it's perfectly okay to do something as prejudicial as this?
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